Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons ground almonds
8 ounces slice manchego cheese , about 1-inch thick
2 tablespoons olive oil
hot garlic vinaigrette , recipe follows
1/4 cup slivered almonds , lightly toasted
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped flat leaf parsley
1/4 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves , finely chopped
2 tablespoons aged sherry wine vinegar
salt & freshly ground black pepper
Warm Almond Crusted Manchego Cheese is a delicious and unique appetizer that will impress your guests at any dinner party. The dish features slices of manchego cheese coated in an almond breadcrumb mixture, which is then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. The result is a warm and rich cheesy flavor that is nicely balanced by the crunchy almond crust. The accompanying Hot Garlic Vinaigrette adds a tangy, savory flavor to the dish, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.Place the flour, salt, and pepper into a shallow dish and mix well.
3.Beat the egg and water together in a second shallow dish.
4.In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and ground almonds.
5.Dredge each slice of cheese in the flour, shaking off the excess.
6.Dip each slice into the egg mixture.
7.Coat each slice with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto the cheese.
8.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
9.Add the cheese slices to the skillet and cook until the crust is golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side.
10.Transfer the cheese to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
11.Meanwhile, make the hot garlic vinaigrette.
12.In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
13.Add the garlic and sauté until softened, about 1 minute.
14.Add the sherry wine vinegar and whisk to combine.
15.Season with salt and pepper to taste.
16.To serve, spoon the hot vinaigrette over the warm cheese slices.
17.Sprinkle with the toasted almonds and chopped parsley.
18.Serve immediately.

PROS

This appetizer is quick and easy to make, and perfect for entertaining.

The combination of the warm, melting cheese and the crispy almond crust is irresistible.

CONS

Although delicious, this appetizer is high in calories and fat.

It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Manchego cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Almonds are high in healthy fats and protein, and are known to reduce inflammation and lower blood sugar levels.

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